“Flu vaccination is the single most important step we can take to protect ourselves and our families against infection,” said New Jersey Department of Health Acting Commissioner Judith Persichilli in a statement.

So, what can we expect from this flu season? Where are flu shots available? And what are some myths about the flu vaccine?

When should I get a flu shot?

The flu shot can wear off, which is why the CDC says that getting a shot in July or August may be too early and may not last you through the end of the season. Getting vaccinated around the end of October should last people through the entire season.

It’s never clear how a given season will shake out. The flu is incredibly unpredictable. Last year’s flu season, which ran until April, was one of the deadliest in years. There were six flu-related deaths in the state among children younger than 18 years old, making it the deadliest since the 2013-2014 season. There were also 51 severe flu-related hospitalizations last year.

Australia’s flu season, which comes before America’s and is often a good indicator of how severe the flu season could end up being in U.S., has seen “lower than average" flu activity "for this time of year compared to previous years,” according to the country’s health department website.

However, only time will tell how things turn out in the U.S. this season.

What’s new with the flu shot this year?

Each year, there is typically one flu strain that dominates during a given flu season. Last year it was the H1N1 virus, also known as swine flu. The year before, it was the H3N2 strain. Again, time will tell which strain will become the bully this season. But, according to the CDC, the flu shot has been updated to better match the strains that federal health officials anticipate will be circulating this season, including H1N1, H3N2 and both strains of influenza B.

This year, the flu shots covering the four main strains have been grown in cells instead of eggs, as had been the primary method in years past. This is significant as cell-based vaccines have the “potential to offer better protection than traditional, egg-based flu vaccines as a result of being more similar to flu viruses in circulation,” according to the CDC. In the past, some strains, particularly the H3N2 virus, had been able to mutate while incubating in the eggs.

In this Feb. 7, 2018, file photo, a nurse prepares a flu shot at the Salvation Army in Atlanta.
(AP Photo/David Goldman, File)AP

Where can I get a flu shot?

You can get vaccinated at your doctor’s office. However, pharmacies like CVS, Rite Aid and Walgreens are also offering vaccinations. Some grocery stores also offer shots. You can use the CDC’s flu shot finder below. Just type in your zip code and it will show all the locations where vaccines are being offered in your area. You can also visit the CDC’s vaccine finder by clicking here.

How long does it take for the vaccine to work?

It’s important to note that the vaccine is not immediate. After getting a shot, it takes around two weeks for your body to create the antibodies needed to protect against the flu. So it’s smart to get it over and done with.

Do some children require two doses of flu vaccine?

Yes. According to the CDC, some children 6 months through 8 years of age will need 2 doses of flu vaccine this season. For more information on who should get a second dose, click here.

The flu, a highly contagious respiratory illness, is often not severe, though it can be quite unpleasant. But it can develop into something quite serious, even life-threatening. Young children and older adults are among the most vulnerable to the flu.

According to the CDC, symptoms of the flu include:

Fever, or feeling feverish/chills

Cough

Sore throat

Runny or stuffy nose

Muscle or body aches

Headaches

Fatigue (tiredness)

Vomiting and diarrhea (however, this is most common in children, the CDC says).

Who should get a flu shot?

It's recommended that almost everyone get a flu shot. However, some should not, including children younger than 6 months old and people with "severe, life-threatening allergies to flu vaccine or any of its ingredients," according to the CDC.

When does flu season peak?

If you tend to skip your flu shot every year, you’re not alone. Many people blow it off, and for a variety of reasons. While the flu shot’s effectiveness can vary from season to season, it’s important to note that, according to experts, even if you get the flu, the vaccine will lessen the intensity of your symptoms.

Here are also some common myths and misconceptions about the flu shot:

Myth: The flu vaccine can give you the flu. (False. In extremely rare cases, however, some people can develop a life-threatening reaction, according to the CDC.)

Myth: It’s better to get the flu than the flu vaccine. (False, unless you like getting the flu.)

Myth: I don’t need a flu shot every year. (False. The flu vaccine will eventually wear off, which is why you should get one every year.)